The move marks a significant step towards operationalising space-to-air laser communications, allowing aircraft to securely transmit and receive high-volume data via SDA’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture, a resilient network of satellites in low-Earth orbit designed to support modern military operations.
The request for information calls for mature and scalable terminal designs that can be integrated onto aircraft platforms, with SDA emphasising technologies that can be demonstrated within 12 months and rapidly transitioned into operational service.
Successful flight test underpins program
The announcement follows a successful demonstration in August 2025, when SDA and its partners achieved a two-way laser communication link between a commercial low-Earth orbit satellite and an aircraft in flight.
The test confirmed stable, high-bandwidth data transmission between space and air, validating optical communications as a viable means of delivering secure, mission-critical information to airborne platforms. The achievement represented a major milestone in enabling real-time connectivity between aircraft and space-based military networks.
Unlike traditional radio frequency systems, optical communications use laser links, offering significantly higher bandwidth, improved security and greater resistance to electronic warfare interference.
The United States Space Force, which operates the SDA’s satellite architecture, is seeking industry input to identify production-ready systems that can support rapid deployment.
The agency’s objective is to field an initial operational space-to-air optical communication capability as early as 2027, enhancing the resilience and effectiveness of airborne forces operating in contested environments.
Once deployed, the technology will allow aircraft – including surveillance, command and combat platforms – to connect directly to space-based networks without relying on vulnerable terrestrial infrastructure or traditional radio links.
Defence officials said the capability will form a key component of future military networking, enabling faster decision making, improved situational awareness, and more survivable communications in high-threat scenarios.